Combination massage table with one or more resistance bands

ABSTRACT

A combination massage table with one or more resistance bands (“combination table”) is disclosed. This combination table may include: a massage table; the one or more resistance bands; and a means for attaching the one or more resistance bands to the massage table; such that a client using the combination table receives at least one improved health benefit as compared against massage therapy without any resistance band use. Methods for using the combination table are also disclosed. Such methods may include: preparing the combination table for use; preparing the client so the client is laying on top of the combination table; and massaging the client while the client at least intermittently engages the one or more resistance bands that are attached to the combination table; wherein this results in the at least one improved health benefit to the client.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to massage tables andresistance bands and more specifically to a combination massage tablewith one or more resistance bands, as well as methods for using such acombination massage table with one or more resistance bands.

COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent application may containmaterial that is subject to copyright protection. The owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightswhatsoever.

Certain marks referenced herein may be common law or registeredtrademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated with theapplicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is by way of example andshould not be construed as descriptive or to limit the scope of thisinvention to material associated only with such marks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Presently (circa 2015), the inventors are not aware of any massage tablecombined with attached resistance bands. The inventors have discoveredthat by combining (e.g., by attaching) one or more resistance bands to amassage table, that during a given massage therapy session, wherein aclient may also utilize the resistance bands, an improved (synergistic)health benefit may result, as compared to massage therapy utilizing onlythe massage table without any resistance bands.

There then is a need in the art for a combination massage table with oneor more resistance bands; as well as method(s) for using such acombination massage table with one or more resistance bands.

It is to these ends that the present invention has been developed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize otherlimitations that will be apparent upon reading and understanding thepresent specification, the present invention describes a combinationmassage table with one or more resistance bands (hereinafter, acombination table). In some embodiments, such a combination table maycomprise: a massage table; the one or more resistance bands; and a meansfor attaching the one or more resistance bands to the massage table;such that a client using the combination table may receive at least oneimproved health benefit as compared against massage therapy with noresistance band use. Furthermore, a method for using the combinationtable may be described and disclosed herein. Such a method may comprisesteps of: preparing the combination table for use; preparing the clientso the client is laying on top of an upper surface of the combinationtable; massaging the client while the client at least intermittentlyengages one or more resistance bands that are attached to thecombination table; wherein the intermittent engagement of the one ormore resistance bands while the client is being massaged may result inat least one improved health benefit to the client.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a combinationmassage table with one or more resistance bands (hereinafter, acombination table) that may provide at least one improved health benefitto the client using the combination table as compared against a massagetable without any attached resistance bands.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide thecombination table where the one or more resistance bands may be engagedby the upper body and/or the lower body of the client.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide thecombination table where the one or more resistance bands may be engagedby at least one hand or arm and/or at least one ankle or leg of theclient.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide thecombination table wherein there may be at least one or more resistancebands for each limb of the client.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide thecombination table wherein there may be at least two or more resistancebands for at least one limb of the client; wherein the two or moreresistance bands that may be paired for a particular limb may havedifferent resistances and/or uses.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide thecombination table wherein the one or more resistance bands may havedifferent levels of resistances; such of these one or more resistanceband may be color coded to visually indicate these different levels ofresistances.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide thecombination table wherein the combination table may be operated in atleast two operational configurations, a deployed configuration and afolded configuration; wherein the deployed configuration may be for useand the folded configuration may be for transporting and/or storing thecombination table.

It is yet another objective of the present invention that one or moreresistance bands may be combined with a massage table in a fashion thatdoes not interfere with a masseuse's ability to massage the clientand/or with the masseuse's ability to access the client.

These and other advantages and features of the present invention aredescribed herein with specificity so as to make the present inventionunderstandable to one of ordinary skill in the art, both with respect tohow to practice the present invention and how to make the presentinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Elements in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale inorder to enhance their clarity and improve understanding of thesevarious elements and embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, elementsthat are known to be common and well understood to those in the industryare not depicted in order to provide a clear view of the variousembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1A may depict a combination massage table with one or moreresistance bands (hereinafter the combination table) that may be in usewith a client and a masseuse, wherein at least some portion of theclient's body (e.g., an upper body portion) may be receiving a healthbenefit, shown from a top perspective view.

FIG. 1B may depict the combination table of FIG. 1A that may still be inuse with the client and the masseuse; however, a lower body portion ofthe client's body may be receiving a health benefit, shown from a topperspective view. Note, the remaining views may not depict the clientnor the masseuse.

FIG. 2A may depict the combination table of FIG. 1A, shown from a topperspective view.

FIG. 2B may depict the combination table of FIG. 1A, shown from a bottomperspective view.

FIG. 2C may depict the combination table of FIG. 1A, shown from alongitudinal side view. Note left and right longitudinal sides views maybe substantially the same.

FIG. 2D may depict the combination table of FIG. 1A, shown from atransverse width end view of a foot end of the combination table.

FIG. 2E may depict the combination table of FIG. 1A, shown from a topperspective transverse width end view of a head end of the combinationtable, that also may depict a head-cushion (which may be a face-cushionin some embodiments).

FIG. 2F may depict the combination table of FIG. 1A, shown from the topperspective transverse width end view of the head end of the combinationtable, but without depicting the head-cushion.

FIG. 3 may depict the combination table of FIG. 1A, shown as a partialexploded view, from a bottom perspective, showing the one or moreresistance bands, engagement structures, and means for attachingexploded away from an underside of a massage table.

FIG. 4A may depict a partial longitudinal side view of an exteriorfacing surface of a rail of the massage table showing band-guidesmounted to this rail to guide and provide the one or more resistancebands at a consistent location for use by the client.

FIG. 4B may depict a partial underside perspective view of one bottomcorner at the foot end of the combination table of FIG. 1A, shown from abottom perspective view.

FIG. 4C may depict a partial view of one corner at the foot end of thecombination table of FIG. 1A, shown from a transverse width end view.

FIG. 4D may depict a partial view of an interior facing surface of arail of the combination table of FIG. 1A, shown from a bottomperspective view.

FIG. 4E may depict a partial view of a bottom surface of the rail of thecombination table of FIG. 1A, shown from a bottom perspective view.

FIG. 4F may depict an alternative embodiment from FIG. 4E, showing aplurality of anchor brackets arranged in a linear serial fashion, shownfrom the same bottom perspective view of FIG. 4E.

FIG. 4G may depict an alternative embodiment from FIG. 4D, showing atrack attached to the interior facing surface of the rail; wherein oneor more anchor brackets may be slidingly engaged on this track, shownfrom the same bottom perspective view of FIG. 4D.

FIG. 4H may depict an alternative embodiment to that of FIG. 4A. In FIG.4H, the band-guides may be openable-band-guides, which may be openablefor ease of attaching or detaching the one or more resistance bands atthe consistent location for use by the client.

FIG. 5A may depict the combination table of FIG. 1A; wherein thecombination table may be in a folded configuration, shown from a topperspective view.

FIG. 5B may depict the same folded configuration of FIG. 5A, but shownfrom a bottom perspective view while showing a locking means.

FIG. 5C may depict the same folded configuration of FIG. 5A, but shownfrom a different top perspective view while showing a handle.

FIG. 6A may depict a method of use of using the combination table ofFIG. 1A, shown as a flowchart.

FIG. 6B may depict steps for prepping the combination table, shown as aflowchart.

FIG. 6C may depict steps for prepping the client, shown as a flowchart.

REFERENCE NUMERAL SCHEDULE

-   100 combination massage table with one or more resistance bands 100    (i.e., combination table 100)-   200 massage table 200-   201 tabletop 201-   202 head end 202-   203 foot end 203-   204 upper surface 204-   205 covering 205-   207 lower surface 207-   211 face-portal 211-   212 perimeter 212-   213 at least one head-cushion attachment region 213-   214 head-cushion 214-   221 elongate member 221-   222 end 222-   223 end 223-   224 legs 224-   225 at least one structural support 225-   226 vertical height adjustment means 226-   231 at least one display region 231-   241 ankle support 241-   251 storage strap 251-   301 one or more resistance bands 301-   302 engagement end 302-   303 anchor end 303-   305 handle 305-   306 ankle strap 306-   312 carabiner 312-   313 coupling 313-   401 rail 401-   402 fixed distance 402-   403 bottom surface 403-   404 interior facing surface 404-   405 exterior facing surface 405-   411 anchor bracket 411-   415 track 415-   421 band-guide 421-   425 openable-band-guide 425-   431 mechanical fastener 431-   501 first section 501-   502 second section 502-   503 handle 503-   504 locking means 504-   600 method of use 600-   601 prepping combination table 601-   603 placing combination table onto proper substrate 603-   605 stability check for deployed combination stable 605-   607 resistance band attachment and/or proper location check 607-   609 prepping client 609-   611 assist client onto combination table 611-   613 assist client with engaging one or more engagement structures    613-   615 massaging client and client resistance band engagement 615-   621 receiving health benefit 621-   901 client 901-   951 masseuse 951

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A combination massage table with one or more resistance bands(hereinafter, a combination table) may be described and disclosedherein. In some embodiments, such a combination table may comprise: amassage table; the one or more resistance bands; and a means forattaching the one or more resistance bands to the massage table; suchthat a client using the combination table may receive at least oneimproved health benefit as compared against massage therapy withoutresistance band use. Furthermore, a method for using the combinationtable may be described and disclosed herein. Such a method may comprisesteps of: preparing the combination table for use; preparing the clientso the client is laying on top of an upper surface of the combinationtable; massaging the client while the client at least intermittentlyengages one or more resistance bands that are attached to thecombination table; wherein in the at least intermittent engagement ofthe one or more resistance bands while the client is being massaged mayresult in the at least one improved health benefit to the client.

In the following discussion that addresses a number of embodiments andapplications of the present invention, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings that form a part thereof, where depictions aremade, by way of illustration, of specific embodiments in which theinvention may be practiced. It is to be understood that otherembodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departingfrom the scope of the invention.

A FIG. 1 series of figures may comprise FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B. These twofigures may depict a combination massage table with one or moreresistance bands 100 (hereinafter the combination table 100) that may bein use with a client 901 and a masseuse 951. FIG. 1A may depictcombination table 100 where at least an upper portion of client 901'sbody may be receiving a health benefit, shown from a top perspectiveview. FIG. 1B may depict combination table 100 where at least a lowerbody portion of the client's 901 body may be receiving a health benefit,shown from a top perspective view. Note the remaining views may notdepict client 901 or masseuse 951. Also note, the health benefit thatclient 901 may be receiving in FIG. 1A and in FIG. 1B may or may not bethe same health benefit as between what may be depicted in these twofigures.

In these FIG. 1 series of figures, masseuse 951 may be massaging client901. Simultaneously, client 901 may be engaging one or more resistancebands 301. For example, and without limiting the scope of the presentinvention, in FIG. 1A, at least one of the client's 901 hands may beengaging a handle 305 that may be in communication with at least oneresistance band 301; wherein that at least one resistance 301 may alsobe anchored to the massage table 200 of the combination table 100. Thatis, in some embodiments, combination table 100 may comprise massagetable 200. For example, and without limiting the scope of the presentinvention, in FIG. 1B, at least one of client's 901 ankles may beengaged by an ankle strap 306 that may be in communication with at leastone resistance band 301; wherein that at least one resistance 301 mayalso be anchored to the massage table 200 of the combination table 100.

Because of inherent resistance quality (e.g., arising from a givenelasticity modulus of a given resistance band 301), when client 901 maybe engaging a given resistance band, at least some muscles in client 901may also be engaged, e.g., in a flexed state; while simultaneously,client 901 may be receiving various massage techniques from masseuse951, either on the engaged (i.e., activated) muscle of the client 901and/or in different related muscles of the client 901 or somecombination of such muscles; wherein a synergistic health benefit may bereceived by client 901.

This health benefit for client 901 may be one or more of: an increase inrelaxation; a decrease in stress; an increase in mobility; an increasein flexibility; a decrease in stiffness; a decrease in pain; improvedblood flow and/or blood circulation; reduction of headache quantity;reduction of headache severity; improved rehabilitation; improvedrecovery and/or the like. Such health benefits may be synergistic whenthe massage techniques are combined with resistance band 301 use, inthat these health benefits may be derived faster as compared to massagetechniques without resistance band 301 use. Furthermore, anotherimportant synergistic health benefit may be an increase in client 901compliance, because with resistance band 301 use combined with massage,client 901 may be interactive, more involved, engaged, and/or in controlof their given massage session (as compared to massage alone with noresistance band use); and this improved client 901 compliance mayfurther facilitate with obtaining faster health benefits (as compared tomassage alone with no resistance band use). Additionally, as acollateral benefit, client 901 may simultaneously be exercising variousmuscles, resulting in calorie burning and/or muscle strengthening and/ortoning.

In some embodiments, masseuse 951 may be providing instructions toclient 901 and educating on how, when, where, and why client 901 may beengaging one or more resistance bands 301.

A FIG. 2 series of figures may comprise FIG. 2A through and includingFIG. 2F. These FIG. 2 series of figures may focus on depicting variousgeometry and/or structures of massage table 200; wherein in someembodiments, combination table 100 may comprise massage table 200.

FIG. 2A may depict combination table 100, shown from a top perspectiveview. FIG. 2B may depict combination table 100, shown from a bottomperspective view. FIG. 2C may depict combination table 100, shown from alongitudinal side view. In some embodiments, left and right longitudinalsides views may be substantially the same. FIG. 2D may depictcombination table 100, shown from a transverse width end view of a footend 203 of combination table 100. FIG. 2E may depict combination table100, shown from a top perspective transverse width end view of a headend 202 of combination table 100, that also may depict a head-cushion214. In some embodiments, head-cushion 214 may be a face-cushion. FIG.2F may depict combination table 100, shown from the top perspectivetransverse width end view of head end 202 of combination table 100, butwithout depicting head-cushion 214.

In some embodiments, combination table 100 may comprise: massage table200, one or more resistance bands 301, and a means for attaching one ormore resistance bands to massage table 200; wherein client 901 use ofcombination table 100 may receive at least one health benefit.

In some embodiments, massage table 200 may comprise: a tabletop 201 (seeFIG. 2A) with an upper surface 204 (see FIG. 2A) and a lower surface 207(see FIG. 2B) disposed opposite of upper surface 204. In someembodiments, upper surface 204 may physically support client 901. SeeFIG. 1A and/or FIG. 1B. In some embodiments, upper surface 204 may be inremovable physical contact with portions of client 901 who may be lyingon top of upper surface 204. See FIG. 1A and/or FIG. 1B. In someembodiments, tabletop 201 may comprise two opposing terminal ends, headend 202 and foot end 203. See FIG. 2A. In some embodiments, head end 202and foot end 203 may indicate longitudinal boundaries of a given massagetable 200 (or of a given combination table 100).

In some embodiments, one or more of: tabletop 201, upper surface 204,and/or lower surface 207 may be substantially planar members. In someembodiments, tabletop 201, upper surface 204, and lower surface 207 mayeach be a substantially planar member. See e.g., FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.

In some embodiments, tabletop 201 may be comprised of at least one rigidto semi-rigid members. In some embodiments, tabletop 201 may interiorlyconstructed from the at least one rigid to the at least one semi-rigidmembers. In some embodiments, disposed between upper surface 204 andlower surface 207 may be one or more rigid to semi-rigid members (notdepicted in the figures). In some embodiments, these rigid to semi-rigidmembers may provide structure that enables tabletop 201 to supportclient 901. In some embodiments, these rigid to semi-rigid members maybe arranged as one or more sheets. For example, and without limiting thescope of the present invention, in some embodiments, such one or moresheets may be plywood and/or composite particle board; and/or somesuitable laminate for the intended purpose of tabletop 201 supportingclient 901. In some embodiments, these rigid to semi-rigid members maybe arranged in a grid fashion where the rigid to semi-rigid members maybe a plurality of elongate members.

In some embodiments, disposed to an interior side of the upper surface204 may be at least one cushion. This at least one cushion may providecomfort and/or support to client 901, when client 901 is being supportedby upper surface 204. In some embodiments, this at least one cushion maybe substantially constructed from one or more foam members and/or frombatting.

In some embodiments, upper surface 204 may be substantially covered witha covering 205. See e.g., FIG. 2C. Or alternatively, in someembodiments, covering 205 may replace upper surface 204 in the figures.Or alternatively, in some embodiments, upper surface 204 may be covering205.

In some embodiments, such a given covering 205 may bound upper andperipheral sides of the at least one cushion. In some embodiments,covering 205 may be substantially constructed from any material ofconstruction suitable as upholstery. In some embodiments, covering 205may be substantially constructed from any material of constructionsuitable to cover furniture. In some embodiments, covering 205 may besubstantially constructed from one or more textiles and/or fabrics. Suchtextiles and/or fabrics may be natural and/or synthetic.

In some embodiments, massage table 200 may comprise one or more rails401. See e.g., any of the FIG. 2 figures. In some embodiments, one ormore rails 401 may be attached to and/or integral to tabletop 201. Oneor more rails 401 may be discussed further in a FIG. 4 series of figuresdiscussion below.

In some embodiments, a two dimensional projection of the tabletop 201 asviewed from a top direction may be a shape selected from a groupconsisting of: a rectangle, with or without rounded corners; a regularpolygon, with or without rounded corners; an irregular polygon, with orwithout rounded corners; an oval; an ellipse; a circle; and/or the like.In some embodiments, rail 401 may bound (i.e., circumscribe) each edgeof this shape. In some exemplary embodiments, this two dimensionalprojection of the tabletop 201 as viewed from the top direction may bethe rectangle shape, with rounded corners. In some exemplaryembodiments, tabletop 201 may be substantially a rectangular prism withrounded corners. See e.g., FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.

In some embodiments, tabletop 201 may comprise a face-portal 211 thatmay be formed from a bound cutout within the tabletop 201 that runs fromupper surface 204 to lower surface 207. See e.g., FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.In some embodiments, face-portal 211 may be located closer to head end202 than to foot end 203. In some embodiments, this face-portal 211 maybe located in first section 501. In some embodiments, face-portal 211may comprise an opening that may be sized to receive at least someportions of a face of the client 901. In some embodiments, face-portal211 may serve at least a function of permitting client 901 to breathenormally while client 901 may be laying face down upon upper surface204, without twisting a neck of client 901 into an uncomfortableposition.

In some embodiments, face-portal 211 may have a two dimensional shape asviewed from a top direction. In some embodiments, this two dimensionalshape may be selected from a group consisting of: a rectangle, with orwithout rounded corners; a regular polygon, with or without roundedcorners; an irregular polygon, with or without rounded corners; an oval,an ellipse, and a circle. In some embodiments, this two dimensionalshape may be the rectangle, with rounded corners.

In some embodiments, disposed around at least some portion of aperimeter 212 of face-portal 211 and within a proximate distance of someportion of perimeter 212, may be head-cushion 214. See e.g., FIG. 2E. Insome embodiments, head-cushion 214 may be a raised cushioned structurethat extends away from upper surface 204, when head-cushion 214 may bemounted to upper surface 204. In some embodiments, head-cushion 214 mayprovide for comfort and support to at least some portions of the headand/or of the face of client 901. In some embodiments, head-cushion 214may be a face cushion. For example, and without limiting the scope ofthe present invention, in some embodiments this proximate distancebetween the some portion of perimeter 212 and head-cushion 214 may befrom 0.01 inch to five inches. In some embodiments, head-cushion 214 maybegin at perimeter 212.

In some embodiments, head-cushion 214 may be attached and/or removedfrom the tabletop 201. In some embodiments, disposed around at leastsome portion of perimeter 212 face-portal 211 and within the proximatedistance from the some portion of perimeter 212 may be at least onehead-cushion attachment region 213 on upper surface 204 that may beremovably attaches to a bottom region of head-cushion 214. See e.g.,FIG. 2F for at least one head-cushion attachment region 213. Anattachment means between at least one head-cushion attachment region 213and the bottom region of head-cushion 214 may by various mechanicalfasteners; such as, but not limited to: a plurality of hooks and aplurality of complimentary loops (e.g., as in a VELCRO type attachmentsmeans), buttons, snaps, zippers, tie-downs, and/or the like.

In some embodiments, massage table 200 may comprise a vertical supportmeans that when massage table 200 may be in a deployed configurationthis vertical support means may maintain upper surface 204 at asubstantially uniform distance along an entirety of tabletop 201 from asubstrate, assuming that substrate is of a substantially level surface,with minimal slope (grade) for at least a longitudinal length ofcombination table 100. For example, and without limiting the scope ofthe present invention, this substrate may be a floor or a ground, withor without additional coverings, such as carpeting and/or rugs.

In some embodiments, this vertical support means may comprise at leasttwo elongate members. In embodiments where there may be two elongatemembers, these two elongate members may be longitudinally disposed fromeach other. In some embodiments, the vertical support means may comprisetwo pairs of oppositely disposed legs 224 (i.e., such that there may beat least four legs 224 in total). In some embodiments, each elongatemember may be a leg 224. In some embodiments, for each corner of theshape of the two dimensional projection of the tabletop 201 as viewedfrom a top direction there may be comprise attachment of one suchelongate member (or leg 224). In some embodiments, there may be fourseparate elongate members (or legs 224), arranged in two opposing pairs.See e.g., FIG. 2B.

In some embodiments, one end, end 223, of each of these at least twoelongate members (or legs 224) may physically contact the substrate andanother oppositely disposed end, end 222, of each of these at least twoelongate members (or legs 224) may be attached to tabletop 201, or somestructure of tabletop 201. See e.g., FIG. 2B, FIG. 2C (for end 223), andFIG. 2D (for end 223). In some embodiments, each of the at least twoelongate members (e.g., leg 224) may be attached to tabletop 201 at alocation on lower surface 207 or to an intermediary structure (i.e., thesome structure of tabletop 201) that may be attached to lower surface207 (and/or attached to interior facing surface 404 of a given rail401). See e.g., FIG. 2B (and see FIG. 3). Such points of attachment maybe proximate to or at a closest corner of the shape of the twodimensional projection of tabletop 201 as viewed from a top direction.Such a proximate measurement may be within twelve inches of that closestcorner. That is, in some embodiments, a given leg 224 may extend fromtabletop 201, from within twelve inches of at least one corner.

In some embodiments, a height of the vertical support means may beadjustable. This may permit a height of upper surface 204 with respectto the substrate to be varied. In some embodiments, each of these atleast two elongate members may comprise a vertical height adjustmentmeans 226. See e.g., FIG. 2B, FIG. 2C, and FIG. 2D. For example, andwithout limiting the scope of the present invention, vertical heightadjustment means 226 may comprise a system of adjustable and lockingtelescoping legs 224 or a system of adjustable and locking slidinglytranslational legs 224; where in either embodiment each leg 224comprises a pair of sub-legs 224 that may slidingly translate withrespect to each other. Along a length of such sub-legs 224 there may beplurality of set holes for lockingly varying the height of upper surface204.

In some embodiments, where each of the at least two elongate members(e.g., leg 224) may be attached to tabletop 201, this attachment may beable to pivot between each of the at least two elongate members (e.g.,legs 224) and tabletop 201; such that when table 100 may be in thefolded configuration each of the at least two elongate members (e.g.,legs 224) may be folded and disposed within first section 501 and secondsection 502. See FIG. 5 series of figures for depictions of the foldedconfiguration.

Continuing discussing the FIG. 2 series of figures, in some embodiments,the vertical support means may comprise at least one structural support225 that may provide one or more of side to side and/or front to backstability for combination table 100 or to massage table 200. In someembodiments, each of the at least one structural support 225 may beattached to one or more of: at least one of the two elongate members(e.g., legs 224), another of the at least one structural support 225,lower surface 207, or an interior facing surface 404 of a rail 401. Someat least one structural support 225 may be a rigid to semi-rigid member.Some at least one structural support 225, between its at least twopoints of attachment, may provide at least some tension. Some at leastone structural support 225 may act as a truss. Some at least onestructural support 225 may be tension cables. See e.g., FIG. 2B, FIG.2C, and FIG. 2D.

In some embodiments, combination table 100 and/or massage table 200 maycomprise at least one display region 231. In some embodiments, at leastone display region 231 may display one or more of: a logo, a graphic,artwork, a brand, a trademark, a tradename, a photograph, instructions,writing, and/or some combination thereof. In some embodiments, at leastone display regions 231 may be located on one or more of: upper surface204, lower surface 207, an exterior facing surface 405 of a given rail401 of tabletop 201, and/or a region of an elongate member of a verticalsupport means. See e.g., FIG. 2D.

FIG. 3 may depict the combination table 100, shown as a partial explodedview, from a bottom perspective, showing the one or more resistancebands 301, engagement structures, and means for attaching exploded awayfrom an underside (such as lower surface 207) of massage table 200.

In some embodiments, each of one or more resistance bands 301 may be anelastic elongate member. In some embodiments, each of one or moreresistance bands 301 may be an elastic and flexible elongate member. Insome embodiments, such members may be at least partially sheathed toprotect the given member. In some embodiments, such members may be of awoven construction from a plurality of fibers or a plurality of singleelastic elements. In some embodiments, such members may be of anon-woven construction, i.e. of a single integral member for a givenresistance band 301. In some embodiments, each of one or more resistancebands 301 may be substantially constructed of one or more elastomericmaterials. In some embodiments, each of one or more resistance bands 301may be substantially constructed of one or more of: a natural rubber, asynthetic rubber, a latex rubber, a latex-free rubber, a silicone,and/or the like.

In some embodiments, each of one or more resistance bands 301 maycomprise two oppositely disposed terminal ends, an engagement end 302and an anchor end 303. See FIG. 3. In some embodiments, anchor end 303may be attached to massage table 200 via the means for attaching. Insome embodiments, engagement end 302 may be attached to an engagementstructure. In some embodiments, at least some portion of the engagementstructure may be for the client 901 to engage.

In some embodiments, structurally, engagement end 302 and anchor end 303may be substantially identical. In some embodiments, engagement end 302and/or anchor end 303 may comprise a knot. In some embodiments,engagement end 302 and/or anchor end 303 may comprise enlarged structurethat is larger than a diameter of one or more resistance bands 301 in amiddle region of one or more resistance bands 301. In some embodiments,engagement end 302 and/or anchor end 303 may comprise the enlargedstructure that may be larger than the thickness of one or moreresistance bands 301 in the middle region of one or more resistancebands 301. This knot and/or this enlarged structured may be trappedand/or captured by other structures, such as, but not limited to, acoupling 313. This knot and/or this enlarged structured may be attachedto other structures, such as, but not limited to, coupling 313.

In some embodiments, the engagement structure may be selected from agroup comprising of one or more of: handle 305, a handhold, ankle strap306, a wrist strap, and/or various attachment hardware. The variousattachment hardware may comprise of one or more of: a swivel, a link, aring, a D-ring, coupling 313, a carabiner 312, and/or the like. In someembodiments, the engagement structure may be selected from a groupcomprising of one or more of: handle 305, the handhold, ankle strap 306,the wrist strap, the swivel, the link, the ring, the D-ring, coupling313, and carabiner 312. In some embodiments, links, rings, D-rings, andcarabiners 312 may be interchangeable.

In some embodiments, such handles 305 and/or handholds may besubstantially covered with a foam and/or elastomeric material providingcomfort to client 901. In some embodiments, ankle straps 306 and/or thewrist straps may removably circumscribe an ankle and/or a wrist ofclient 901, respectively. In some embodiments, ankle straps 306 and/orthe wrist straps may be removably sealed with a plurality of hooks and aplurality of complimentary loops (e.g., as in a VELCRO type closuremeans). In some embodiments, handles 305, handholds, ankle straps 306,and/or wrist straps may comprise at least one: link, ring, D-ring, orcarabiner 312.

In some embodiments, coupling 313 may attach to either engagement end302 or to anchor end 303. In some embodiments, coupling 313 may comprisea major loop of webbing (strapping), wherein disposed within that majorloop may be a hole sized to receive the thickness of one or moreresistance bands 301 in the middle region, but small enough not topermit passage of the knot and/or the enlarged structure of engagementend 302 and anchor end 303. In this way a given coupling 313 may attachto a given resistance band 301 via the hole within the major loop andthe major loop itself of any given coupling 313 may then attach to oneor more of: links, rings, D-rings, and carabiners 312, anchor brackets411, and/or band-guides 421. In some embodiments, coupling 313 may beintegral with the anchor end 303.

In some embodiments, a quantity of one or more resistance bands 301 mustbe evenly dividable by four, such that there may be at least oneresistance band 301 for each limb of client 901. In some embodiments,where there may be two or more resistance bands 301 arranged for a givenlimb of client 901, such paired resistance bands 301 may comprisedifferent resistances. In some embodiments, one or more resistance bands301 may comprise from one resistance band 301 up to and including twentydistinct resistance bands 301. In an exemplary embodiment, one or moreresistance bands 301 may comprise from eight total resistance bands 301.

In some embodiments, one or more resistance bands 301 may comprise atleast four resistance bands 301 arranged as follows, with at least oneresistance band accessible by each arm and each leg of client 901 whowill be laying on the tabletop 201 of massage table 200. In an exemplaryembodiment, there may be eight resistance bands 301, with four of thoseeight resistance bands 301 for upper body use on client 901, with twoper side of client 901; and the remaining four of the eight resistancebands 301 for lower body use of client 901, with two per side of client901. See FIG. 3. In some embodiments, each pair of resistance bands 301for a given limb may be of different resistances.

In some embodiments, one or more resistance bands 301 may be colorcoded. For example, and without limiting the scope of the presentinvention, different colors, may represent different resistances. Forexample, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,different colors, may represent one or more resistance bands 301 forclient 901 upper body use or for client 901 lower body use.

FIG. 4A through and including FIG. 4C may depict band-guides 421; andFIG. 4H may depict a type of band-guide 421, and openable-band-guide425. While FIG. 4D through and including FIG. 4G may depict anchorbrackets 411, as well as the means for attaching one or more resistancebands 301 to massage table 200.

FIG. 4A may depict a partial longitudinal side view of an exteriorfacing surface 405 of rail 401 of massage table 200. This rail 401depicted in FIG. 4A, may be from a longitudinal side of massage table200. FIG. 4A may also depict band-guides 421 mounted to this rail 401 toguide and provide one or more resistance bands 301 at a consistentlocation for use by client 901. Band-guides 421 depicted in FIG. 4A maybe for client 901 upper body use.

Band-guides 421 depicted in FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C may be for client 901lower body use. FIG. 4B may depict a partial underside perspective viewof one bottom corner, a left bottom corner) at foot end 203 ofcombination table of 100, shown from a bottom perspective view. FIG. 4Cmay depict a partial view of a same corner as shown in FIG. 4B, at footend 203 of combination table 100, shown from a transverse width endview. Another opposing bottom corner, i.e., a right bottom corner, maybe substantially a mirrored opposite as FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C. FIG. 4B andFIG. 4C may depict portions of rail 401, a rail 401 of foot end 203,i.e., a transverse width rail 401. FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C may also depictband-guides 421 mounted to this rail 401 to guide and provide one ormore resistance bands 301 at a consistent location for use by client901. Before discussing band-guides 421, rails 401 may be discussed.

In some embodiments, massage table 200 may comprise one or more rails401. In some embodiments, one or more rails 401 may be attached toand/or integral to tabletop 201. In some embodiments, tabletop 201 maybe bounded (i.e., circumscribed) by rail 401 that may extend a fixeddistance 402 away from bottom surface 207 or that may extend fixeddistance 402 away from upper surface 204. See e.g., each of the FIG. 2figures and see FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C.

Or alternatively, in some embodiments, rail 401 may extend downwardsfrom a perimeter of tabletop 201. In some embodiments, rail may extentdownwards from lower surface 207; wherein rail 401 emerges from lowersurface 207 at some proximate distance from outside edges of tabletop201. In some embodiments, where tabletop 201 may have a rectangularprism shape, then there may be four rails 401, organized as a pair ofopposing longitudinal rails 401 and a pair of opposing transverse widthrails 401. See e.g., each of the FIG. 2 figures and see FIG. 4A, FIG. 4Band FIG. 4C.

In some embodiments, rail 401 may extent downward fixed distance 402. Insome embodiments, fixed distance 402 may be measured from upper surface204 (see e.g., FIG. 4A) or from lower surface 207 to some terminal pointof rail 402, such as bottom surface 403 (see FIG. 4B) of rail 401. Insome embodiments, fixed distance 402 may be from 0.10 inch to 24 inches.

In some embodiments, a given rail 401 may comprise at least threesurfaces: bottom surface 403 (see FIG. 4B), interior facing surface 404(see FIG. 4D), and exterior facing surface 405 (see FIG. 4A). In someembodiments, interior facing surface 404 may be disposed opposite ofexterior facing surface 405. In some embodiments, exterior facingsurface 405 may face away from massage table 200. In some embodiments,bottom surface 403 may face oppositely away from upper surface 204. Insome embodiments, exterior facing surface 405 may be substantiallyorthogonal to bottom surface 403. In some embodiments, bottom surface403 may be substantially orthogonal to interior facing surface 404. Insome embodiments, bottom surface 403 may face in a substantially samedirection as lower surface 207. In some embodiments, exterior facingsurface 405 and/or interior facing surface 404 may be substantiallyperpendicular with bottom surface 403 and/or with lower surface 207. Seee.g., FIG. 4B, FIG. 4D, and FIG. 4A.

In some embodiments, a given surface of a given rail 401 such as, bottomsurface 403, interior facing surface 404, and/or exterior facing surface405 may provide anchor surfaces for attaching one or more of: variousband-guides 421, anchor brackets 411, and/or tracks 415.

In some embodiments, disposed on exterior facing surface 405 may be oneor more of the following: a handle 503 and/or a locking means 504. Seee.g., FIG. 5A through and including FIG. 5C. In some embodiments, one ormore handles 503 may aid in handling table 100 when in the foldedconfiguration. In some embodiments, one or more locking means 504 mayaid in locking the first section 501 to the second section 502 whentable 100 may be in the folded configuration. In some embodiments,locking means 504 may comprise one or more of: a clasp, a lock, a keyfor the lock, a combination for the lock.

In some embodiments, tabletop 201 may be without rails.

In some embodiments, massage table 200 may comprise one or moreband-guides 421. See e.g., FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C. In someembodiments, band-guides 421 may be attached to massage table 200 withvarious mechanical fasteners, such as mechanical fastener 431. In someembodiments, mechanical fastener 431 may be one or more of screws,bolts, and/or rivets. Band-guides 421 may function to keep engagementends 302 near enough to client 901 hands and/or ankles, such that client901 hands and/or ankles (without undue effort) may removably engage theengagement structure, such as, but not limited to, handles 305 and/orankle strap 306.

In some embodiments, each band-guide 421 may comprises circumscribingstructure, such as, but not limited to, an eyelet and/or a bracket, thatmay capture at least some portion of a given one or more resistance band301, such that the given one or more resistance band 301 may beassociated with massage table 200 and accessible to client 901 handsand/or ankles. In some embodiments, this circumscribing structure maypermit linear translational sliding of the at least some portion of thegiven one or more resistance bands 301 that may be captured by thecircumscribing structure. See e.g., FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C.

In some embodiments, massage table 200 may comprise at least fourband-guides 421, with at least one band-guide 421 for each arm and eachleg of client 901. Each band-guide 421 may be attached to massage table200. In some embodiments, two of the four band-guides 421 may beopposingly attached to massage table 200 on opposing rails 401 ofopposing longitudinal sides of tabletop 201 (see e.g., FIG. 4A) or onopposing longitudinal sides of lower surface 207 of tabletop 201; and aremaining two of the four band-guides 421 may be attached to massagetable 200 on a same rail 402 of foot end 203 of tabletop 201 (see e.g.,FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C) or attached proximate to a same vertical supportmeans of foot end 203.

In some embodiments, half of band-guides 421 may be opposingly attachedto different regions of first section 501 providing client 901 handaccess to at least one handle 305; while a remaining half of band-guides421 may be attached to second section 502 providing client 901 ankleaccess to at least one ankle strap 306.

In some exemplary embodiments, one or more resistance bands 301 maycomprise eight resistance bands 301 arranged as follows, with tworesistance bands 301 accessible by each arm and with two resistancebands 301 accessible by each leg of client 901 who may be laying on topof tabletop 201 of massage table 200. In some embodiments, each pair (atleast two) of resistance bands 301 may be for a given limb (right arm,left arm, right leg, and left leg), may be of different resistances. Insome embodiments, massage table 201 may comprise eight band-guides 421,with two band-guides 421 for each arm and with two band-guides 421 foreach leg of client 901. In some embodiments, each band-guide 421 may beattached to massage table 200. Each band-guide 421 may comprisecircumscribing structure, such as, but not limited to, the eyelet and/orthe bracket, that may capture at least some portion of a given one ormore resistance band 301, such that the at least some portion of thegiven one or more resistance band 301 may be maintained in a fixeddistance with the massage table 200 and accessible to client 901 handsand/or ankles. In some embodiments, this circumscribing structure maypermit linear translational sliding of the at least some portion of thegiven one or more resistance bands 301 that may be captured by thecircumscribing structure. See e.g., FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C.

In some embodiments, two pairs of the eight band-guides 421 may beopposingly attached to the massage table 200 on opposing rails 401 ofopposing longitudinal sides of tabletop 201 (see e.g., FIG. 4A) or onopposing longitudinal sides of lower surface 207 of tabletop 201; and aremaining two pairs of the eight band-guides 421 may be attached tomassage table 200 on a same rail 401 of foot end 203 of tabletop 200(see e.g., FIG. 2D, FIG. 4B, and FIG. 4C) or attached proximate to asame vertical support means of foot end 203.

FIG. 4H may depict an alternative embodiment to that of FIG. 4A. In FIG.4H, the band-guides may be openable-band-guides 425, which may beopenable for ease of attaching or detaching the one or more resistancebands 301 at the consistent location for use by the client. In someembodiments, openable-band-guides 425 may be a type of band-guide 421.In some embodiments, any given band-guide 421 may be replaced withopenable-band-guide 425. In some embodiments, openable-band-guides 425may be flexible and/or pliable. In some embodiments,openable-band-guides 425 may be flexible and/or pliable strips offasteners. In some embodiments, such flexible and/or pliable strips offasteners may have opposing distal terminal regions comprising thefastening mechanics, such as a Velcro type fastener (e.g., withplurality of hooks and plurality of complimentary receiving loopslocated on the distal portions of the strips) or a snap type offastener; wherein these opposing distal terminal regions may be broughttogether and removably attached to each other via the fastener mechanicswhich may then form a loop of the strip; wherein this loop may be thecircumscribing structure, that may capture some portion of one or moreresistance bands 301. In some embodiments, at least one of theseopposing distal terminal regions may be attached to exterior facingsurface 405, or to any other structure band-guide 421 may be attachedto.

As noted, FIG. 4D through and including FIG. 4G may depict anchorbrackets 411, as well as the means for attaching one or more resistancebands 301 to massage table 200. FIG. 4D may depict a partial view of aninterior facing surface 404 of a given rail 401 (e.g., a longitudinalside rail 401) of combination table 100, shown from a bottom perspectiveview. FIG. 4E may depict a partial view of a bottom surface 403 of thegiven rail 401 of FIG. 4D, shown from a different bottom perspectiveview. That is, FIG. 4D and FIG. 4E may depict the same structures andsame components, but from different viewing angles.

Whereas, FIG. 4F and FIG. 4G may depict different embodiments ascompared against FIG. 4D and FIG. 4E. FIG. 4F may depict an alternativeembodiment from FIG. 4E, showing a plurality of anchor brackets 411arranged in a linear serial fashion, shown from the same bottomperspective view of FIG. 4E. FIG. 4G may depict an alternativeembodiment from FIG. 4D, showing a track 415 attached to interior facingsurface 404 of rail 401; wherein one or more anchor brackets 411 may beslidingly, but lockably, engaged on this track 415, shown from the samebottom perspective view of FIG. 4D.

In some embodiments, for each of one or more resistance bands 301, themeans for attaching one or more resistance bands 301 to massage table200 may comprise one or more of: an anchor bracket 411, track 415 forreceiving anchor bracket 411, the various attachment hardware,mechanical fastener 431, and/or anchor end 303. In some embodiments, thevarious attachment hardware may comprise one or more of: the swivel, thelink, the ring, the D-ring, coupling 313, and/or carabiner 312. In someembodiments, for each of one or more resistance bands 301, the means forattaching one or more resistance bands 301 to massage table 200 maycomprise one or more of: anchor bracket 411, the swivel, the link, thering, the D-ring, coupling 313, track 415 for receiving anchor bracket411, carabiner 312, mechanical fasteners 431, and/or anchor end 303. Seee.g., FIG. 3, FIG. 4D, FIG. 4E, FIG. 4F, and FIG. 4G. In someembodiments, links, rings, D-rings, and carabiners 312 may beinterchangeable.

In some embodiments, for each pair of one or more resistance bands 301for association with a given limb of client 901, the means for attachingone or more resistance bands 301 to massage table 200 may comprise oneor more of: anchor bracket 411, track 415 for receiving anchor bracket411, the various attachment hardware, mechanical fastener 431, and/oranchor ends 303. In some embodiments, the various attachment hardwaremay comprise one or more of: the swivel, the link, the ring, the D-ring,coupling 313, and/or carabiner 312. In some embodiments, for each pairof one or more resistance bands 301 for association with a given limb ofclient 901, the means for attaching one or more resistance bands 301 tomassage table 200 may comprise one or more of: anchor bracket 411, theswivel, the link, the ring, the D-ring, coupling 313, track 415 forreceiving anchor bracket 411, carabiner 312, mechanical fasteners 431,and/or anchor end 303. See e.g., FIG. 3, FIG. 4D, FIG. 4E, FIG. 4F, andFIG. 4G. In some embodiments, links, rings, D-rings, and carabiners 312may be interchangeable.

In some embodiments, a single anchor bracket 411 may have one, two,three, four, or five resistance bands 301 anchored to that given singleanchor bracket 411. For example, and without limiting the scope of thepresent invention, in FIG. 4D and in FIG. 4E, there may be tworesistance bands 301 anchored with each depicted anchor bracket 411.

In some embodiments, the means for attaching one or more resistancebands 301 to massage table 200 may permit a given anchor end 303 of eachof the one or more resistance bands 301 to be attached to the massagetable 200. In some embodiments, the means for attaching one or moreresistance bands 301 to massage table 200 may permit a given anchor end303 of each of the one or more resistance bands 301 to be fixedlyassociated with particular locations of the massage table 200. In someembodiments, one or more anchor bracket 411 may be attached to themassage table 200. In some embodiments, one or more anchor bracket 411may be attached to track 415; wherein track 415 may be attached to themassage table 200 and one or more anchor brackets 411 may be receivedinto track 415 (see e.g., FIG. 4G). In some embodiments, carabiner 312,the swivel, the link, the ring, and/or the D-ring may attach to a givenanchor bracket 411. Wherein, carabiner 312, the swivel, the link, thering, and/or the D-ring may also then attach to coupling 313. Wherein,coupling 313 may then attach to anchor end 303 of a given resistanceband 301. See e.g., FIG. 4D, FIG. 4E, FIG. 4F, and FIG. 4G.

In some embodiments, for each at least a pair of one or more resistancebands 301, the means for attaching one or more resistance bands 301 tomassage table 200 may comprise one of: one or more anchor brackets 411,coupling 313, and carabiner 312. In some embodiments, the means forattaching one or more resistance bands 301 to massage table 200 maypermit anchor end 303 of each of one or more resistance bands 301 to beattached to massage table 200; and/or to be fixedly associated withparticular locations of massage table 200. In some embodiments, eachanchor bracket 411 may be attached to massage table 200. In someembodiments, a given carabiner 312 may attach to each attached (mounted)anchor bracket 411. Each such carabiner 312 may also attach to a givencoupling 313. Each such coupling 313 may then attach to a given anchorend 303 of a given resistance band 301. See e.g., FIG. 4D and FIG. 4E.

In some embodiments, each anchor bracket 411, that is not attached totrack 415, may attach to a given rail 401 (e.g., interior facing surface404) of tabletop 201 of massage table 200. See e.g., FIG. 4D, FIG. 4E,and FIG. 4F. In some embodiments, each anchor bracket 411 that is notattached to the track 415, may attach to lower surface 207 of tabletop201 (this embodiment not depicted in the figures). In some embodiments,each anchor bracket 411 may be attached to massage table 200 withvarious mechanical fasteners, such as mechanical fastener 431. In someembodiments, mechanical fastener 431 may be one or more of screws,bolts, and/or rivets.

In various embodiments, each anchor bracket 411 may be attached to firstsection 501, attached to second section 501, or with some anchorbrackets 411 attached to first section 501 and some other anchorbrackets 411 attached to second section 501. For example, and withoutlimiting the scope of the present invention, in exemplary FIG. 2A, allfour anchor brackets 411 may be attached, in pairs, to second section502, in particular to interior facing surfaces 404 of two opposing rails401.

Anchor brackets 411 may function to provide an anchor point ofattachment for anchor ends 303 of resistance bands 301. In someembodiments, each anchor bracket 411 may comprise at least a partialloop structure, such as an eyelet and/or a bracket that functions as theanchor point for attachment of the various attachment hardware and/orfor anchor ends 303 of resistance bands 301. Note, in some embodiments,a given band-guide 421 and a given anchor bracket 411 may be a samehardware component, but used in different ways.

With respect to differences between embodiments depicted in FIG. 4E andin FIG. 4F, in FIG. 4F there may be four anchor brackets depicted,arranged in a linear fashion. This may provide four slightly differentanchor locations for the various resistance bands 301, such thatvariances in anchor location may vary the resistance of the givenresistance band 301 which may be removably attached to a given anchorbracket 411, assuming that the given engagement end 302 remains disposedby a given band-guide 421.

Similarly, in FIG. 4G, anchor locations may be varied by a given anchorbracket 411, that may be slidingly attached to a given track 415, beingvariable along a longitude of this given track 415. Furthermore, suchanchor bracket 411 in the FIG. 4G embodiment may be lockable at thevarious anchor locations along the longitude of this given track 415.For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,opposing ends of such anchor brackets 411 may be squeezed towards eachother when anchor bracket 411 may be need to slid along track 415, andonce released may frictionally engage track 415 to prevent furthersliding translation.

In some embodiments, at least one anchor end 303 may be directlyattached to massage table 200, via mechanical fasteners and/or chemicaladhesives. In such embodiments, where a given anchor bracket 411 mayhave been attached to massage table 200, e.g., at a given rail 401location, anchor end 303 may be directly attached.

The FIG. 5 series of figures may comprise FIG. 5A through and includingFIG. 5C. These FIG. 5 series of figures may focus on depicting thefolded configuration of some embodiments of combination table 100. FIG.5A may depict combination table 100 in the folded configuration, shownfrom a top perspective view. FIG. 5B may depict the same foldedconfiguration of FIG. 5A, but shown from a bottom perspective view whileshowing locking means 504. FIG. 5C may depict the same foldedconfiguration of FIG. 5A, but shown from a different top perspectiveview while showing handle 503.

In some embodiments, tabletop 201 may be foldable along a delineationthat may separates tabletop 201 into two sections, first section 501 andsecond section 502. In some embodiments, first section 501 may behingedly attached to second section 502 along at least some portion ofthis delineation. This structure may permit massage table 200 to operatein two configurations, the deployed configuration of the FIG. 1 and theFIG. 2 series of figures and the folded configuration of the FIG. 5series of figures. In some embodiments, when massage table 200 may be inthe deployed configuration, upper surface 204 of both first section 501and of second section 502 may be substantially sharing a common planeand/or upper surface 204 of both first section 501 and of second section502 may be substantially collinear; which may be the configurationdepicted in the FIG. 1 and the FIG. 2 series of figures.

Whereas, in the folded configuration lower surface 207 of first section501 may face lower surface 207 of second section 502; which may be theconfiguration depicted in the FIG. 5 series of figures, although theselower surfaces 207 are not actually depicted in the FIG. 5 series offigures.

In some embodiments, where each of the at least two elongate members(e.g., leg 224) may be attached to tabletop 201, such attachment may beable to pivot between each of the at least two elongate members (e.g.,legs 224) and tabletop 201; such that when table 100 may be in thefolded configuration, each of the at least two elongate members (e.g.,legs 224) may be folded and disposed within first section 501 and secondsection 502, such that these at least two elongate members (e.g., legs224) may not be visible in the folded configuration.

In some embodiments, disposed on exterior facing surface 405 may be oneor more of the following: handle 503 and/or locking means 504. See e.g.,FIG. 5A through and including FIG. 5C. In some embodiments, one or morehandles 503 may aid in handling table 100 when in the foldedconfiguration; i.e., handle 503 may be a carrying handle. In someembodiments, one or more locking means 504 may aid in locking firstsection 501 to second section 502 when table 100 may be in the foldedconfiguration. In some embodiments, locking means 504 may comprise oneor more of: a clasp, a lock, a key for the lock, a combination for thelock.

The FIG. 6 series of figures may comprise FIG. 6A through and includingFIG. 6C. These FIG. 6 series of figures may focus on depicting variousmethod(s) and/or steps involved with using combination table 100. FIG.6A may depict a method of use 600 of using the combination table 100,shown as a flowchart. In some embodiments, this method 600 may comprisesteps of: step 601, step 609, and step 615. In some embodiments, thismethod 600 may comprise steps of: step 601, step 609, step 615, and step621. FIG. 6B may depict additional steps (details) of step 601 forprepping the combination table, shown as a flowchart. FIG. 6C may depictadditional steps details) of step 609 for prepping the client, shown asa flowchart.

In some embodiments, method 600 may be a method for using combinationtable 100 to achieve at least one health benefit in client 901. In someembodiments, method 600 may comprise steps of: step 601, step 609, andstep 615; and in some embodiments, may further comprise step 621. Seee.g., FIG. 6A. In some embodiments, step 601 may comprise preparingcombination table 100 for use by client 901. In some embodiments, step609 may comprise preparing client 901 so client 901 may be lying on topof upper surface 204 of combination table 100. In some embodiments, step615 may comprise massaging client 901 while client 901 may at leastintermittently engage one or more resistance bands 301 that may beattached to combination massage table 100. In some embodiments, step 621may comprise client 901 receiving at least one health benefit as aresult of step 615.

In some embodiments, step 601 of preparing combination table 100 maycomprise additional steps as depicted in FIG. 6B. In some embodiments,step 601 may comprise one or more steps of: step 603, step 605, step607, and/or the like.

In some embodiments, step 603 may comprise placing combination table 100into the deployed configuration upon a substantially level substrate. Insome embodiments, step 603 may comprise placing combination table 100into the deployed configuration onto a proper substrate, i.e., thesubstrate that may be substantially level for at least the longitudinallength of combination table 100.

In some embodiments, step 605 may comprise checking combination table100 for side to side stability and for forwards backwards stability. Forexample, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, thismay entail checking to see if all legs 224 may be properly deployed andin a locked configuration (and at a substantially similar height). Ifproblems with either stability may be found, then step 603 may bere-carried out.

In some embodiments, step 607 may comprise attaching (securing) at leastone resistance band 301, selected from the one or more resistance bands301, to combination table 100, such that at least one resistance band301 may be anchored at anchor bracket 411 that may be attached tocombination table 100. In some embodiments, step 607 may also comprisemaking sure that at least some portion of at least one resistance band301 may be captured by a band-guide 421, that may be attached tocombination table 100 in a different location from the anchor bracket411, such that an engagement end 302 of at least one resistance band 301that may be attached to some of the engagement structure may beaccessible to client 901, when client 901 may be laying on top ofcombination table 100 (e.g., upon upper surface 204). (Recall in someembodiments, anchor end 303 may be directly attached to massage table200.)

As noted, there may be one or more resistance bands 301 per each limb ofclient 901 that may be attached to combination table 100. Wherein eachpair (two or more) such resistance bands for a given limb of client 901may have different resistances. Wherein such different resistances maybe indicated by different colors of resistance bands 301.

In some embodiments, step 601 of preparing combination table 100 maycomprise an additional step of removably attaching head-cushion 214 toat least one head-cushion attachment region 213.

In some embodiments, step 609 of preparing client 901 may compriseadditional steps as depicted in FIG. 6C. In some embodiments, step 609may comprise one or more steps of: step 611 and/or step 613. In someembodiments, step 611 may comprise assisting client 901 with lying ontop of upper surface 204. In some embodiments, step 613 may compriseassisting client 901 with engaging one or more of: handle 305 attachedto at least one resistance band 301 selected from the one or moreresistance bands 301; or ankle strap 306 attached to at least oneresistance band 301 selected from the one or more resistance bands 301.

In some embodiments, step 615 may further comprise providing one or moreof: oral or visual instructions to client 901 for how to at leastintermittently engage one or more resistance bands 301 that may beattached to combination table 100 during a given massage therapysession.

In some embodiments, the at least one health benefit to client 901, thatmay be received in step 621 as a result of step 615, may be selectedfrom a group comprising one or more of: an increase in relaxation; adecrease in stress; an increase in mobility; an increase in flexibility;a decrease in stiffness; a decrease in pain; improved blood flow;improved blood circulation; reduction of headache quantity; reduction ofheadache severity; improved rehabilitation; increased client compliancewith relevant treatment regiment involving massage therapy that combinesresistance band 301 use as compared against massage therapy with noresistance band 301 use; exercising various muscles, resulting inincreases in one or more of: strength, calorie burning, and/or muscletoning; and faster achievement of such at least one health benefit ascompared to massage without resistance band 301 use.

A combination massage table with one or more resistance bands (i.e., acombination table) has been described. A method using the combinationmassage table with one or more resistance bands has been described. Theforegoing description of the various exemplary embodiments of theinvention has been presented for the purposes of illustration anddisclosure. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications andvariations are possible in light of the above teaching without departingfrom the spirit of the invention.

While the invention has been described in connection with what ispresently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments,it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to thedisclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A combination massage table with one or moreresistance bands comprising: the one or more resistance bands; a massagetable; wherein the massage table comprises: a tabletop with an uppersurface and a lower surface disposed opposite of the upper surface; arail; wherein a perimeter of the tabletop is bounded by the rail thatextends a fixed distance away from the upper surface around theperimeter; wherein the rail has three surfaces, an exterior facingsurface, an interior facing surface, and a bottom surface; wherein thebottom surface faces substantially away from the upper surface; whereinthe exterior facing surface is disposed opposite of the interior facingsurface; wherein the bottom surface is substantially orthogonal to boththe exterior facing surface and the interior facing surface; at leastfour band-guides, with at least one band-guide for each arm and for eachleg of a client; wherein each band-guide is attached to the massagetable; wherein each band-guide comprises circumscribing structure thatcaptures at least some portion of at least one resistance band selectedfrom the one or more resistance bands, such that the at least oneresistance band is associated with the massage table; wherein thecircumscribing structure permits linear translational sliding of the atleast some portion of the at least one resistance band that is capturedby the circumscribing structure; and a means for attaching the one ormore resistance bands to the massage table; wherein at least a portionof the means for attaching the one or more resistance bands to themassage table is attached to the interior facing surface; wherein atleast a different portion of the means for attaching the one or moreresistance bands to the massage table is attached to the one or moreresistance bands.
 2. The combination massage table with one or moreresistance bands according to claim 1, wherein a two dimensionalprojection of the tabletop as viewed from a top direction is a shapeselected from a group consisting of: a rectangle, with or withoutrounded corners; a regular polygon, with or without rounded corners; anirregular polygon, with or without rounded corners; an oval, an ellipse,and a circle.
 3. The combination massage table with one or moreresistance bands according to claim 1, wherein the tabletop comprises aface-portal that is formed from a bound cutout within the tabletop thatruns from the upper surface to the lower surface; wherein theface-portal comprises an opening that is sized to receive at least someportion of a face of the client such that the client breathes normallywhen face down upon the upper surface.
 4. The combination massage tablewith one or more resistance bands according to claim 3, wherein disposedaround at least some portion of a perimeter of the face-portal andwithin a proximate distance of the perimeter of the face-portal, is ahead-cushion; wherein the head-cushion is a raised cushioned structurethat extends away from the upper surface; wherein the head-cushionprovides comfort and support to at least some portion of the face. 5.The combination massage table with one or more resistance bandsaccording to claim 1, wherein the massage table comprises a verticalsupport means that maintains the upper surface at a substantiallyuniform distance along an entirety of the tabletop with respect to asubstrate that the combination massage table with one or more resistancebands is resting upon; wherein the vertical support means comprises atleast two opposing elongate members; wherein one end of each of thesetwo opposing elongate members physically contacts the substrate andanother oppositely disposed end of each of these two opposing elongatemembers is attached to the tabletop.
 6. The combination massage tablewith one or more resistance bands according to claim 5, wherein each ofthe at least two opposing elongate member comprises a pair of legs, suchthat there are at least two pairs of opposing legs.
 7. The combinationmassage table with one or more resistance bands according to claim 1,wherein each of the one or more resistance bands is an elastic elongatemember.
 8. The combination massage table with one or more resistancebands according to claim 1, wherein each of the one or more resistancebands comprises two oppositely disposed terminal ends, an engagement endand an anchor end; wherein the anchor end is attached to the massagetable via the means for attaching the one or more resistance bands tothe massage table; wherein the engagement end is attached to anengagement structure; wherein at least some portion of the engagementstructure is engageable by the client who is using the combinationmassage table with one or more resistance bands.
 9. The combinationmassage table with one or more resistance bands according to claim 8,wherein the engagement structure is selected from a group consisting ofone or more of: a handle, a handhold, an ankle strap, a wrist strap, aswivel, a link, a ring, a D-ring, a coupling, and a carabiner.
 10. Thecombination massage table with one or more resistance bands according toclaim 1, wherein the one or more resistance bands comprise from oneresistance band up to and including twenty distinct resistance bands.11. The combination massage table with one or more resistance bandsaccording to claim 1, wherein the one or more resistance bands comprisesat least four resistance bands arranged as follows, with at least oneresistance band accessible by each arm and each leg of the client who islying on top of the tabletop of the massage table.
 12. The combinationmassage table with one or more resistance bands according to claim 1,wherein two of the at least four band-guides are attached to the massagetable on opposing rails of opposing longitudinal sides of the tabletopof the massage table or on opposing longitudinal sides of the lowersurface of the tabletop; and a remaining two of the at least fourband-guides are attached to the massage table on a same rail of a footend of the tabletop or attached proximate to the foot end; wherein theopposing rails and the same rail are sections of the rail.
 13. Thecombination massage table with one or more resistance bands according toclaim 1, wherein each of the one or more resistance bands issubstantially constructed of one or more elastomeric materials.
 14. Thecombination massage table with one or more resistance bands according toclaim 1, wherein each of the one or more resistance bands issubstantially constructed of one or more of: a natural rubber, asynthetic rubber, a latex rubber, a latex-free rubber, or silicone. 15.The combination massage table with one or more resistance bandsaccording to claim 1, wherein the means for attaching the one or moreresistance bands to the massage table comprises one or more of: ananchor bracket, a swivel, a link, a ring, a D-ring, a coupling, a trackfor receiving the anchor bracket, or a carabiner; wherein the anchorbracket is attached to the massage table on the interior facing surface;or the track is attached to the massage table and the anchor bracket isreceived into the track; wherein the carabiner, the swivel, the link,the ring, or the D-ring attaches to the anchor bracket; wherein thecarabiner, the swivel, the link, the ring, or the D-ring also attachesto the coupling; wherein the coupling attaches to an anchor end of theone or more resistance bands.
 16. The combination massage table with oneor more resistance bands according to claim 1, wherein when at least aportion of the client is being removably supported by the upper surfaceand the client is removably engaging a distal portion of the one or moreresistance bands at or proximate to an engagement end of the one or moreresistance bands, the client receives at least one health benefit.